Newcastle boss Pardew excited by Bordeaux challenge

Pardew reckons Bordeaux are group favourites after dismantling FC Bruges in their opening game 4-0 - part of a six-month, 17-match unbeaten run.

The Toon boss, hoping for a seventh straight home win in Europe, said: "I've asked one or two of the French lads their opinion on a couple of things about Bordeaux.

"It's nice to get a different view and it has added to our extensive stock of knowledge about our opponents.

"We think they'll put out a strong side.

"I'd put them as favourites for the group now and it's a level up from the other sides we've faced in Europe so far. But on home soil we fancy ourselves against any team, though we know we must be at our best to win."